Background: Research exploring the influence of glaucoma on quality of life has gained momentum in recent years. Numerous studies have investigated the multifaceted aspects of quality of life in glaucoma patients, uti...Background: Research exploring the influence of glaucoma on quality of life has gained momentum in recent years. Numerous studies have investigated the multifaceted aspects of quality of life in glaucoma patients, utilizing various assessment tools and methodologies. Objective: To determine the influence that glaucoma has on the quality of life among adult patients. Study site: kitwe teaching eye hospital, Zambia. Method: It was a cross-sectional study that was conducted from 30<sup>th</sup> June 2022 to 17<sup>th</sup> April 2023. The study included 106 diagnosed glaucoma patients who were above the age of 55 years. Data was collected using validated 25-item national eye institute visual function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25). The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26 and Microsoft excel to present frequencies and percentages that generated graphical presentation. Results: 62% of the participants worry about their eye sight most of the time, 26% sometimes and 12% a little time. 9% of the participants had little difficulty to read ordinary prints, 14% moderate difficulties and 58% extremely difficult. 40% of the participants could drive despite glaucoma damaging their eyes while 60% could not. Majority of the patients said it was difficult noticing things around them while walking or sitted in one place. There was a significant difference between effects of glaucoma on patients and the existing relationship between glaucoma and quality of life (ANOVA, p = 0.019 and ANOVA, p = 0.023). Conclusion: This study has demonstrated the magnitude of impact that glaucoma has on the Quality of Life (QoL) in diagnosed patients and the relationship between glaucoma and the Quality of Life. Due to the progressive visual loss, the amount of activities these patients would perform is negatively affected especially where social and economic activities are concerned which also affects their monthly earnings for those living in middle to low-income countries. Therefore, social welfare and psycho-social institutions need to increase their support for these glaucoma patients.展开更多
Context: Kidney transplantation is today the standard treatment for patients suffering from chronic end-stage renal failure. Living kidney donation offers many advantages for the recipient, but requires a subject with...Context: Kidney transplantation is today the standard treatment for patients suffering from chronic end-stage renal failure. Living kidney donation offers many advantages for the recipient, but requires a subject without comorbidities to undergo surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life and psychosocial experience of living kidney donors after donation. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with an analytical aim, involving living kidney donors during the period from January 2016 to April 2019 at CHUGA. (University Hospital Center of Grenoble Alpes in France). Results: Our study shows that out of 88 donors, 70 responded to our questionnaires, representing a prevalence of 80.5%. The average age of our donors was 55.6 years with a female predominance. Seven out of eight domains of the SF36 score had a good quality of life after donation and the donation did not alter their psychosocial experience. The majority of our donors expressed their pride and enthusiasm, did not regret having saved a life, and this experience was considered positive. Conclusion: Kidney donation does not have a negative impact on quality of life and psychosocial life. The majority of donors do not regret their donation. The dissemination of such results could make it possible to increase the number of kidney transplants from living donors in France, especially in our African countries where the management of ESRD remains a real public health problem.展开更多
Objective: To analyze the impact of combined Watson care theory intervention on the psychological state and quality of life in patients with terminal lung cancer. Methods: 72 patients with terminal lung cancer admitte...Objective: To analyze the impact of combined Watson care theory intervention on the psychological state and quality of life in patients with terminal lung cancer. Methods: 72 patients with terminal lung cancer admitted from March 2021 to January 2024 were selected, which were divided into research group (life review combined with Watson care theory intervention) and control group (conventional intervention), with 36 cases each. Compare the nursing effect between the two groups. Results: The anxiety self-rating scale (SAS) and depression self-rating scale (SDS) scores were significantly lower than those of the control group, and the quality of life score was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Life review combined with Watson care theory intervention can improve the psychological state and improve the quality of life of patients with terminal lung cancer.展开更多
Context/Objective: High blood pressure (HBP) currently represents the most widespread chronic non-communicable disease in Cameroon. The increase in its prevalence in the country is the result of multiple factors inclu...Context/Objective: High blood pressure (HBP) currently represents the most widespread chronic non-communicable disease in Cameroon. The increase in its prevalence in the country is the result of multiple factors including economic stress imposed by precariousness, poor living conditions, sources of anxiety, anguish, depression and other behavioral disorders. Economic stress is a globalizing concept that integrates into a purely hermeneutic approach, a particular functioning of the nervous system of an individual who faces employment problems and precarious remuneration conditions. The non-satisfaction by an individual of his basic needs due to insufficient financial means can cause him to become irritable, aggressive, and socially and symbolically isolated, thereby increasing the desire to resort to morbid life models such as excessive consumption of narcotics and other psychoactive substances often associated with high blood pressure. The fight against the emergence of BPH is a complex, multifaceted and multifactorial reality that requires taking into account economic stress. The main objective of this survey is to describe the situation of economic stress within the Cameroonian population, which imposes precariousness and life models at risk of high blood pressure. Specifically, we determined the level of household income and the sources of income. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with a descriptive aim among five hundred households in the Central Region of Cameroon was conducted. A probabilistic technique called simple randomness was used. The number of households to be surveyed was determined indirectly using the Cochrane formula. Data collection in face-to-face mode using a physical questionnaire took place from July 1 to August 31, 2023, after obtaining ethical clearance from the Regional Health Research Ethics Committee, Human from the Center and an administrative authorization for data collection. Regarding their processing, the data was grouped during processing in Excel sheets. Normality and reliability tests of the collected data were carried out. For this, the Chi-square test was used for data with a qualitative value and that of Kolmogorov-Sminorf for data with a quantitative value. Descriptive analysis was possible using R software version 3.2, SPSS version 25.0, XLSTAT 2016, PAST and EXCEL programs from Microsoft Office 2013. Results: The main results highlight economic stress, with 45.60% of households surveyed earning less than US$154 per month;55% of household heads were women in single-parent families;14% of household heads were unemployed, 22% worked in the private sector and 19% were self-employed. This general economic situation leads to precarious living conditions, thereby increasing the risk of high blood pressure among the Cameroonian population.展开更多
Introduction: Ramadan is the ninth lunar month of the Muslim calendar, and fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslim cancer patients and health professionals are faced with a dilemma between t...Introduction: Ramadan is the ninth lunar month of the Muslim calendar, and fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslim cancer patients and health professionals are faced with a dilemma between the necessity of fasting and its possible adverse effects during Ramadan on the health status of cancer patients. We believe that addressing the issue of fasting in cancer patients is of global interest. Objectives: Prevalence of fasting in cancer patients during Ramadan;Predictive factors of Ramadan fasting in cancer patients;The effect of fasting during Ramadan on the quality of life of cancer patients. Materials and Methods: A structured questionnaire was used to interview adult cancer patients who received chemotherapy IV—or oral treatment at the medical oncology department at the Hassan II University Hospital in Fez during the month of Ramadan 1443 Hijri (April to May 2022). The quality of cancer patients’ lives during their fasting practice in Ramadan was evaluated via the QLQ-C30 questionnaires. Results: 48% of patients did not fast during Ramadan, 22% and 30% were partial and complete fasters respectively. Patients, with OMS 0 to 1, who receive outpatient treatment, non-metastatic patients and patients on oral treatment were more frequent in the completely fasted group. All these factors showed statistically significant values (p < 0.05). 44% of patients sought advice from the treating oncologist if they could fast, while only 15% of patients during Ramadan asked an imam if they could be excused from fasting. A comparison of the QLQ-C30 data showed a significant improvement in emotional functioning with fasting, however, patients had clinically more but not significantly fatigue after fasting. Conclusion: Female gender, good WHO, non-metastatic disease, and oral or outpatient treatment were more likely to be fasting. This study argues that fasting did not influence the quality of life, and appears to significantly improve emotional functioning in cancer patients during Ramadan.展开更多
Introduction: Diabetes, a chronic disease characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, poses a major global health challenge. In Gabon, 10% of the population is affected by this condition, highlighting the need to activ...Introduction: Diabetes, a chronic disease characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, poses a major global health challenge. In Gabon, 10% of the population is affected by this condition, highlighting the need to actively understand and manage it. Ocular complications of diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts, have a devastating impact on patients quality of life and represent a crucial issue for healthcare systems. Methodology: This study conducted in Libreville from February 9, 2022, to April 15, 2022, was cross-sectional, longitudinal, and descriptive, with prospective data collection. Participants were diabetic patients regularly followed in the endocrinology department of CHUL, who were referred for a comprehensive ophthalmological examination at CHUO. Sampling was exhaustive, with strict inclusion criteria aimed at ensuring the representativeness of the study population. Results: The mean age of participants was 57.5 ± 13.2 years with a male-to-female ratio of 0.8. Personal histories were dominated by hypertension, while family histories were dominated by diabetes. Ocular complications of diabetes included refractive disorders (78.9%), cataracts (31.7%), glaucoma (78.9%), and diabetic retinopathy (13.7%). These ocular complications had a significant impact on participants’ quality of life, leading to impaired vision (78.9%), difficulties in carrying out daily activities (62.2%), the need for caregiver assistance (50.3%), high levels of stress and anxiety (68.9%), regular medication intake (71.4%), adherence to a specific diet (55.9%), and frequent blood glucose monitoring (74.5%). Conclusion: This study highlights the major impact of diabetic ocular complications on patients’ quality of life.展开更多
Background: Studies on either postnatal quality of life in general or studies that compare quality of life in new mothers after different mode of delivery are limited. An investigation on health related quality of lif...Background: Studies on either postnatal quality of life in general or studies that compare quality of life in new mothers after different mode of delivery are limited. An investigation on health related quality of life measures in women after different type of delivery showed that women who had vaginal delivery had better health related quality of life compared to those who had caesarean section. However, the best method of delivery, vaginal or caesarean for postpartum quality of life is a difficult question as it is a matter of controversy both from professional’s perspectives and from women’s experience during childbirth. Objective: To compare postpartum quality of life in primiparous women after vaginal delivery versus caesarean section. Methods: Prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Salmaniya medical complex in Kingdom of Bahrain. 500 primiparous women who gave birth either vaginally or by cesarean section answered a questionnaire designed to include general information, questions from short form health survey questionnaire (SF-36) and specific questions regarding postnatal related symptoms. Results: Body pain, fatigue, wound pain, headache and backache were significantly higher in cesarean section group as compared to vaginal delivery group (p-value Conclusion: Cesarean delivery has negatively affected the quality of life (QOL) of primiparous women. More studies with larger sample sizes should be conducted to examine the effects of cesarean delivery on QOL in both primiparous and multiparas within a shorter period after delivery. .展开更多
Background: This cross-sectional investigative study aimed to determine student nurses’ attitudes towards end-of-life care. Methods: This study used a descriptive research design with stratified sampling to survey st...Background: This cross-sectional investigative study aimed to determine student nurses’ attitudes towards end-of-life care. Methods: This study used a descriptive research design with stratified sampling to survey student nurses enrolled in one of four nursing colleges in China from January 2023 to December 2023. Student nurses’ general demographic and prior related information, attitudes towards death and attitudes towards end-of-life care were determined using a general information questionnaire, the Death Attitude Profile—Revised scale and the Professional End-of-Life Attitude Scale (PEAS), respectively. Results: The total PEAS score was 122.91 ± 16.123. Significant differences were noted in the attitude towards end-of-life care scores according to sources of end-of-life care knowledge (P Conclusions: Student nurses lacked an optimistic attitude towards end-of-life care, which was influenced by differences in the sources of end-of-life care knowledge.展开更多
This paper presents in a concise way the main characteristics of life from the physical point of view and the most successful theories of biogenesis, together with a mathematical formulation and simulation of proto-bi...This paper presents in a concise way the main characteristics of life from the physical point of view and the most successful theories of biogenesis, together with a mathematical formulation and simulation of proto-biogenesis. We present here a calculation method for biochemical reactions based on the available reaction data base, and using this method, we calculate precise scenarios for the first life cycle, and for the first stages of terrestrial biological evolution.展开更多
“Plasmas” up to a kilometer in size and behaving similarly to multicellular organisms have been filmed on 10 separate NASA space shuttle missions, over 200 miles above Earth within the thermosphere. These self-illum...“Plasmas” up to a kilometer in size and behaving similarly to multicellular organisms have been filmed on 10 separate NASA space shuttle missions, over 200 miles above Earth within the thermosphere. These self-illuminated “plasmas” are attracted to and may “feed on” electromagnetic radiation. They have different morphologies: 1) cone, 2) cloud, 3) donut, 4) spherical-cylindrical;and have been filmed flying towards and descending from the thermosphere into thunderstorms;congregating by the hundreds and interacting with satellites generating electromagnetic activity;approaching the Space Shuttles. Computerized analysis of flight path trajectories documents these plasmas travel at different velocities from different directions and change their angle of trajectory making 45°, 90°, and 180° shifts and follow each other. They’ve been filmed accelerating, slowing down, stopping, congregating, engaging in “hunter-predatory” behavior and intersecting plasmas leaving a plasma dust trail in their wake. Similar life-like behaviors have been demonstrated by plasmas created experimentally. “Plasmas” may have been photographed in the 1940s by WWII pilots (identified as “Foo fighters”);repeatedly observed and filmed by astronauts and military pilots and classified as Unidentified Aerial—Anomalous Phenomenon. Plasmas are not biological but may represent a form of pre-life that via the incorporation of elements common in space, could result in the synthesis of RNA. Plasmas constitute a fourth state of matter, are attracted to electromagnetic activity, and when observed in the lower atmosphere likely account for many of the UFO-UAP sightings over the centuries.展开更多
In order to prevent possible casualties and economic loss, it is critical to accurate prediction of the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) in rail prognostics health management. However, the traditional neural networks is di...In order to prevent possible casualties and economic loss, it is critical to accurate prediction of the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) in rail prognostics health management. However, the traditional neural networks is difficult to capture the long-term dependency relationship of the time series in the modeling of the long time series of rail damage, due to the coupling relationship of multi-channel data from multiple sensors. Here, in this paper, a novel RUL prediction model with an enhanced pulse separable convolution is used to solve this issue. Firstly, a coding module based on the improved pulse separable convolutional network is established to effectively model the relationship between the data. To enhance the network, an alternate gradient back propagation method is implemented. And an efficient channel attention (ECA) mechanism is developed for better emphasizing the useful pulse characteristics. Secondly, an optimized Transformer encoder was designed to serve as the backbone of the model. It has the ability to efficiently understand relationship between the data itself and each other at each time step of long time series with a full life cycle. More importantly, the Transformer encoder is improved by integrating pulse maximum pooling to retain more pulse timing characteristics. Finally, based on the characteristics of the front layer, the final predicted RUL value was provided and served as the end-to-end solution. The empirical findings validate the efficacy of the suggested approach in forecasting the rail RUL, surpassing various existing data-driven prognostication techniques. Meanwhile, the proposed method also shows good generalization performance on PHM2012 bearing data set.展开更多
Aim: This study evaluates the impact of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) nursing on postoperative complications and quality of life in patients undergoing robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE)....Aim: This study evaluates the impact of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) nursing on postoperative complications and quality of life in patients undergoing robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE). Methods: A total of 150 patients who underwent RAMIE from January 2020 to January 2022 at our hospital were randomly assigned to either the observation group or the control group, with 75 patients in each. The control group received standard perioperative management and nursing care, while the observation group was treated with ERAS nursing strategies. Interventions continued until discharge, and outcomes such as postoperative complications, quality of life, and nutritional status were compared between the groups. Results: The observation group exhibited a significantly lower incidence of postoperative adverse reactions compared to the control group (P ionally, all dimension scores of the Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), including the total score, were higher in the observation group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS) scores for impaired nutritional status and disease severity, along with the total NRS score, were significantly lower in the observation group compared to the control group (P Conclusion: Implementing ERAS nursing in the perioperative care of patients undergoing RAMIE is associated with reduced postoperative complications and enhanced postoperative quality of life and nutritional status. .展开更多
Cam-followers provide reliable and controlled motions in various mechanical systems. Due to the highly fluctuating load between the cam and follower in operation, the cam-follower may be subjected to a high risk of co...Cam-followers provide reliable and controlled motions in various mechanical systems. Due to the highly fluctuating load between the cam and follower in operation, the cam-follower may be subjected to a high risk of contact fatigue failure. This paper assesses the fatigue life of a cycloidal displacement cam and a flat-faced follower under the defined loads and constraints. Computer-aided design (CAD) model of the cam-follower is developed in CATIA software and imported to ANSYS software for finite element analysis (FEA) of fatigue life. MATLAB programming is developed for determining the appropriate spring constant and pre-load force to always keep the cam and follower in contact. The fatigue life of the cam-follower has been estimated under the specified operating conditions. The analysis method can be applied to investigate the fatigue life of cams with other profiles, including the modified trapezoidal functions, polynomial functions, etc.展开更多
Introduction: Quality of life in Parkinson disease is not necessary linked to motor symptoms. It’s correlated of overactive bladders and prostatic symptoms. Prognosis factors of urinary quality of life are unknown. O...Introduction: Quality of life in Parkinson disease is not necessary linked to motor symptoms. It’s correlated of overactive bladders and prostatic symptoms. Prognosis factors of urinary quality of life are unknown. Objectives: Our study aims to find prognosis factors of quality of life associated specifically of urinary disorders in PD. Patients and methods: We conducted a transversal, analytic and descriptive study in Physical Medicine, and Neurology departments, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar and included patients followed for treatment of PD. Urinary disorders, quality of life and functional autonomy were assessed respectively by Urinary Symptoms Profile (USP), Qualiven Short Form, Schwab and England Scale. Results: 38 patients presented PD, with a mean age of 60.89 ± 13.6 years and sex-ratio of 2.45. Mean duration of PD was 3.1 ± 2.9 years. Urinary disorders were found in 47.36% and dominated by incontinence (88.88%) and overactive bladders (88.88%) which were minor in more than 55%. Quality of life was impaired in 88.88% of cases. Minor forms (43.75%) were predominant and constraint dimension (50%) was the most severely altered. Prognosis factors for quality of life of urinary disorders were PD stages (0.046) and functional autonomy (0.042). Discussion and conclusion: Urinary disorders in PD are common, impaired quality of life, especially the constraint dimension, depends on stage of evolution of PD and functional autonomy of patients.展开更多
Background: Tinnitus, characterized by the perception of sounds without an external source, significantly affects quality of life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as a promising approach for managing ti...Background: Tinnitus, characterized by the perception of sounds without an external source, significantly affects quality of life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as a promising approach for managing tinnitus-related distress and enhancing psychological well-being. Objectives: This review aims to analyze the effectiveness of CBT in tinnitus management, focusing on alleviating distress, enhancing coping mechanisms, and improving overall well-being. Methods: PubMed and World of Science databases were systematically searched using keywords related to tinnitus, CBT, and quality of life. English, peer-reviewed studies focusing on adult populations were included. Studies involving pediatric populations or not meeting inclusion criteria were excluded. Data extraction was performed using PRISMA guidelines, with a narrative synthesis approach for analysis. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using appropriate tools. The search engine initially identified 155 studies that met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. However, upon further evaluation, 140 of these studies were excluded due to their non-randomized design. Of the remaining 15 studies, 11 were found to be partially accessible but ultimately excluded from the review as they did not meet the full accessibility criteria. Therefore, only four studies remained in the review, deemed suitable for inclusion based on their randomized design and full accessibility. Results: Studies by Beukes et al. [1]-[3] and Simoes et al. [4] evaluated CBT’s effectiveness. With internet-based CBT, Beukes et al. demonstrated reductions in tinnitus distress, negative cognitions, and comorbidities. Simoes et al. proposed combination treatments for tinnitus management. The review outcome suggests that CBT is an effective treatment for tinnitus, as it can help reduce tinnitus distress and improve quality of life. However, limitations in sample sizes and follow-up durations highlight the need for further research to establish CBT’s long-term efficacy and optimal parameters. Integrating internet-based CBT into comprehensive care strategies can enhance the well-being of individuals affected by tinnitus.展开更多
Background and objective: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), a common disease worldwide, has a major impact on patients’ quality of life (QoL). In recent years, the measurement of health-related QoL has made it possible t...Background and objective: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), a common disease worldwide, has a major impact on patients’ quality of life (QoL). In recent years, the measurement of health-related QoL has made it possible to assess the patient’s state of health, the severity of the CRS and the treatment. The aim of this study was to assess the QoL of patients with CRS in a hospital setting in Kinshasa. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted from June 2020 to May 2021 in the ENT service of the Kinshasa University Hospital and the Monkole Hospital Center. The study involved 113 patients aged at least 18 years, whose QOL was compared with that of a control group consisting of 100 non-patients. QOL was assessed using the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) Questionnaire. Results: The mean age of the patients was 41.0 years (18 - 74 years) and that of the controls was 39.1 years (19 - 77 years). More than half of the participants were university graduates. The median SNOT-22 score was 44 (14 - 78) in patients and 7 (1 - 40) in controls. Compared with subjects without CRS, patients with CRS had significantly higher scores in all four domains of the SNOT-22. Around 9 out of 10 patients had a severely impaired QoL compared with 2 out of 10 controls. Considering mildly impaired QoL, we found that in the otological and sleep domains, scores were not significantly different between patients and controls. In the case of severely impaired QoL, however, only the otological domain showed a non-significant difference in scores between the two groups. Conclusion: CRS is a real public health problem in our environment and significantly alters the QoL of patients suffering from it, with repercussions on their professional productivity;hence the need for better management.展开更多
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the immediate psychological effects of coordination exercises on women in Japan. Methods: The subjects were 17 adult women (height, 160.1 ± 5.1 cm;weight, 54.3 ± 10.5 ...Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the immediate psychological effects of coordination exercises on women in Japan. Methods: The subjects were 17 adult women (height, 160.1 ± 5.1 cm;weight, 54.3 ± 10.5 kg;age, 57.8 ± 8.3 years) living in the community and attending a fitness club. The subjects performed a coordination exercise called Life Kinetik®. The subjects responded to the Two-Dimensional Mood Scale–Short Term before and after performing 30 minutes of Life Kinetik®. The results were tabulated and four psychological states were calculated (i.e., vitality, stability, pleasure, and arousal). The pre- and post-implementation results were statistically analyzed using a corresponding t-test. Results: Significant differences were found in activation and arousal levels, but not in stability and comfort levels. Conclusion: The coordination exercise, Life Kinetik®, was found to be an exercise program with potential psychological benefits, as it could change women’s psychological condition to active and excited states.展开更多
Pyrolysis is a rapidly expanding chemical-based recyclable method that complements physical recycling. It avoids improper disposal of post-consumer polymers and mitigates the ecological problems linked to the producti...Pyrolysis is a rapidly expanding chemical-based recyclable method that complements physical recycling. It avoids improper disposal of post-consumer polymers and mitigates the ecological problems linked to the production of new plastic. Nevertheless, while there is a consensus that pyrolysis might be a crucial technology in the years to come, more discussions are needed to address the challenges related to scaling up, the long-term sustainability of the process, and additional variables essential to the advancement of the green economy. Herein, it emphasizes knowledge gaps and methodological issues in current Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), underlining the need for standardized techniques and updated data to support robust decision-making for adopting pyrolysis technologies in waste management strategies. For this purpose, this study reviews the LCAs of pyrolytic processes, encompassing the complete life cycle, from feedstock collection to end-product distribution, including elements such as energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste creation. Hence, we evaluate diverse pyrolysis processes, including slow, rapid, and catalytic pyrolysis, emphasizing their distinct efficiency and environmental footprints. Furthermore, we evaluate the impact of feedstock composition, process parameters, and scale of operation on the overall sustainability of pyrolysis-based plastic waste treatment by integrating results from current literature and identifying essential research needs. Therefore, this paper argues that existing LCA studies need more coherence and accuracy. It follows a thorough evaluation of previous research and suggests new insights into methodologies and restrictions.展开更多
文摘Background: Research exploring the influence of glaucoma on quality of life has gained momentum in recent years. Numerous studies have investigated the multifaceted aspects of quality of life in glaucoma patients, utilizing various assessment tools and methodologies. Objective: To determine the influence that glaucoma has on the quality of life among adult patients. Study site: kitwe teaching eye hospital, Zambia. Method: It was a cross-sectional study that was conducted from 30<sup>th</sup> June 2022 to 17<sup>th</sup> April 2023. The study included 106 diagnosed glaucoma patients who were above the age of 55 years. Data was collected using validated 25-item national eye institute visual function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25). The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26 and Microsoft excel to present frequencies and percentages that generated graphical presentation. Results: 62% of the participants worry about their eye sight most of the time, 26% sometimes and 12% a little time. 9% of the participants had little difficulty to read ordinary prints, 14% moderate difficulties and 58% extremely difficult. 40% of the participants could drive despite glaucoma damaging their eyes while 60% could not. Majority of the patients said it was difficult noticing things around them while walking or sitted in one place. There was a significant difference between effects of glaucoma on patients and the existing relationship between glaucoma and quality of life (ANOVA, p = 0.019 and ANOVA, p = 0.023). Conclusion: This study has demonstrated the magnitude of impact that glaucoma has on the Quality of Life (QoL) in diagnosed patients and the relationship between glaucoma and the Quality of Life. Due to the progressive visual loss, the amount of activities these patients would perform is negatively affected especially where social and economic activities are concerned which also affects their monthly earnings for those living in middle to low-income countries. Therefore, social welfare and psycho-social institutions need to increase their support for these glaucoma patients.
文摘Context: Kidney transplantation is today the standard treatment for patients suffering from chronic end-stage renal failure. Living kidney donation offers many advantages for the recipient, but requires a subject without comorbidities to undergo surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life and psychosocial experience of living kidney donors after donation. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with an analytical aim, involving living kidney donors during the period from January 2016 to April 2019 at CHUGA. (University Hospital Center of Grenoble Alpes in France). Results: Our study shows that out of 88 donors, 70 responded to our questionnaires, representing a prevalence of 80.5%. The average age of our donors was 55.6 years with a female predominance. Seven out of eight domains of the SF36 score had a good quality of life after donation and the donation did not alter their psychosocial experience. The majority of our donors expressed their pride and enthusiasm, did not regret having saved a life, and this experience was considered positive. Conclusion: Kidney donation does not have a negative impact on quality of life and psychosocial life. The majority of donors do not regret their donation. The dissemination of such results could make it possible to increase the number of kidney transplants from living donors in France, especially in our African countries where the management of ESRD remains a real public health problem.
文摘Objective: To analyze the impact of combined Watson care theory intervention on the psychological state and quality of life in patients with terminal lung cancer. Methods: 72 patients with terminal lung cancer admitted from March 2021 to January 2024 were selected, which were divided into research group (life review combined with Watson care theory intervention) and control group (conventional intervention), with 36 cases each. Compare the nursing effect between the two groups. Results: The anxiety self-rating scale (SAS) and depression self-rating scale (SDS) scores were significantly lower than those of the control group, and the quality of life score was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Life review combined with Watson care theory intervention can improve the psychological state and improve the quality of life of patients with terminal lung cancer.
文摘Context/Objective: High blood pressure (HBP) currently represents the most widespread chronic non-communicable disease in Cameroon. The increase in its prevalence in the country is the result of multiple factors including economic stress imposed by precariousness, poor living conditions, sources of anxiety, anguish, depression and other behavioral disorders. Economic stress is a globalizing concept that integrates into a purely hermeneutic approach, a particular functioning of the nervous system of an individual who faces employment problems and precarious remuneration conditions. The non-satisfaction by an individual of his basic needs due to insufficient financial means can cause him to become irritable, aggressive, and socially and symbolically isolated, thereby increasing the desire to resort to morbid life models such as excessive consumption of narcotics and other psychoactive substances often associated with high blood pressure. The fight against the emergence of BPH is a complex, multifaceted and multifactorial reality that requires taking into account economic stress. The main objective of this survey is to describe the situation of economic stress within the Cameroonian population, which imposes precariousness and life models at risk of high blood pressure. Specifically, we determined the level of household income and the sources of income. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with a descriptive aim among five hundred households in the Central Region of Cameroon was conducted. A probabilistic technique called simple randomness was used. The number of households to be surveyed was determined indirectly using the Cochrane formula. Data collection in face-to-face mode using a physical questionnaire took place from July 1 to August 31, 2023, after obtaining ethical clearance from the Regional Health Research Ethics Committee, Human from the Center and an administrative authorization for data collection. Regarding their processing, the data was grouped during processing in Excel sheets. Normality and reliability tests of the collected data were carried out. For this, the Chi-square test was used for data with a qualitative value and that of Kolmogorov-Sminorf for data with a quantitative value. Descriptive analysis was possible using R software version 3.2, SPSS version 25.0, XLSTAT 2016, PAST and EXCEL programs from Microsoft Office 2013. Results: The main results highlight economic stress, with 45.60% of households surveyed earning less than US$154 per month;55% of household heads were women in single-parent families;14% of household heads were unemployed, 22% worked in the private sector and 19% were self-employed. This general economic situation leads to precarious living conditions, thereby increasing the risk of high blood pressure among the Cameroonian population.
文摘Introduction: Ramadan is the ninth lunar month of the Muslim calendar, and fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslim cancer patients and health professionals are faced with a dilemma between the necessity of fasting and its possible adverse effects during Ramadan on the health status of cancer patients. We believe that addressing the issue of fasting in cancer patients is of global interest. Objectives: Prevalence of fasting in cancer patients during Ramadan;Predictive factors of Ramadan fasting in cancer patients;The effect of fasting during Ramadan on the quality of life of cancer patients. Materials and Methods: A structured questionnaire was used to interview adult cancer patients who received chemotherapy IV—or oral treatment at the medical oncology department at the Hassan II University Hospital in Fez during the month of Ramadan 1443 Hijri (April to May 2022). The quality of cancer patients’ lives during their fasting practice in Ramadan was evaluated via the QLQ-C30 questionnaires. Results: 48% of patients did not fast during Ramadan, 22% and 30% were partial and complete fasters respectively. Patients, with OMS 0 to 1, who receive outpatient treatment, non-metastatic patients and patients on oral treatment were more frequent in the completely fasted group. All these factors showed statistically significant values (p < 0.05). 44% of patients sought advice from the treating oncologist if they could fast, while only 15% of patients during Ramadan asked an imam if they could be excused from fasting. A comparison of the QLQ-C30 data showed a significant improvement in emotional functioning with fasting, however, patients had clinically more but not significantly fatigue after fasting. Conclusion: Female gender, good WHO, non-metastatic disease, and oral or outpatient treatment were more likely to be fasting. This study argues that fasting did not influence the quality of life, and appears to significantly improve emotional functioning in cancer patients during Ramadan.
文摘Introduction: Diabetes, a chronic disease characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, poses a major global health challenge. In Gabon, 10% of the population is affected by this condition, highlighting the need to actively understand and manage it. Ocular complications of diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts, have a devastating impact on patients quality of life and represent a crucial issue for healthcare systems. Methodology: This study conducted in Libreville from February 9, 2022, to April 15, 2022, was cross-sectional, longitudinal, and descriptive, with prospective data collection. Participants were diabetic patients regularly followed in the endocrinology department of CHUL, who were referred for a comprehensive ophthalmological examination at CHUO. Sampling was exhaustive, with strict inclusion criteria aimed at ensuring the representativeness of the study population. Results: The mean age of participants was 57.5 ± 13.2 years with a male-to-female ratio of 0.8. Personal histories were dominated by hypertension, while family histories were dominated by diabetes. Ocular complications of diabetes included refractive disorders (78.9%), cataracts (31.7%), glaucoma (78.9%), and diabetic retinopathy (13.7%). These ocular complications had a significant impact on participants’ quality of life, leading to impaired vision (78.9%), difficulties in carrying out daily activities (62.2%), the need for caregiver assistance (50.3%), high levels of stress and anxiety (68.9%), regular medication intake (71.4%), adherence to a specific diet (55.9%), and frequent blood glucose monitoring (74.5%). Conclusion: This study highlights the major impact of diabetic ocular complications on patients’ quality of life.
文摘Background: Studies on either postnatal quality of life in general or studies that compare quality of life in new mothers after different mode of delivery are limited. An investigation on health related quality of life measures in women after different type of delivery showed that women who had vaginal delivery had better health related quality of life compared to those who had caesarean section. However, the best method of delivery, vaginal or caesarean for postpartum quality of life is a difficult question as it is a matter of controversy both from professional’s perspectives and from women’s experience during childbirth. Objective: To compare postpartum quality of life in primiparous women after vaginal delivery versus caesarean section. Methods: Prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Salmaniya medical complex in Kingdom of Bahrain. 500 primiparous women who gave birth either vaginally or by cesarean section answered a questionnaire designed to include general information, questions from short form health survey questionnaire (SF-36) and specific questions regarding postnatal related symptoms. Results: Body pain, fatigue, wound pain, headache and backache were significantly higher in cesarean section group as compared to vaginal delivery group (p-value Conclusion: Cesarean delivery has negatively affected the quality of life (QOL) of primiparous women. More studies with larger sample sizes should be conducted to examine the effects of cesarean delivery on QOL in both primiparous and multiparas within a shorter period after delivery. .
文摘Background: This cross-sectional investigative study aimed to determine student nurses’ attitudes towards end-of-life care. Methods: This study used a descriptive research design with stratified sampling to survey student nurses enrolled in one of four nursing colleges in China from January 2023 to December 2023. Student nurses’ general demographic and prior related information, attitudes towards death and attitudes towards end-of-life care were determined using a general information questionnaire, the Death Attitude Profile—Revised scale and the Professional End-of-Life Attitude Scale (PEAS), respectively. Results: The total PEAS score was 122.91 ± 16.123. Significant differences were noted in the attitude towards end-of-life care scores according to sources of end-of-life care knowledge (P Conclusions: Student nurses lacked an optimistic attitude towards end-of-life care, which was influenced by differences in the sources of end-of-life care knowledge.
文摘This paper presents in a concise way the main characteristics of life from the physical point of view and the most successful theories of biogenesis, together with a mathematical formulation and simulation of proto-biogenesis. We present here a calculation method for biochemical reactions based on the available reaction data base, and using this method, we calculate precise scenarios for the first life cycle, and for the first stages of terrestrial biological evolution.
文摘“Plasmas” up to a kilometer in size and behaving similarly to multicellular organisms have been filmed on 10 separate NASA space shuttle missions, over 200 miles above Earth within the thermosphere. These self-illuminated “plasmas” are attracted to and may “feed on” electromagnetic radiation. They have different morphologies: 1) cone, 2) cloud, 3) donut, 4) spherical-cylindrical;and have been filmed flying towards and descending from the thermosphere into thunderstorms;congregating by the hundreds and interacting with satellites generating electromagnetic activity;approaching the Space Shuttles. Computerized analysis of flight path trajectories documents these plasmas travel at different velocities from different directions and change their angle of trajectory making 45°, 90°, and 180° shifts and follow each other. They’ve been filmed accelerating, slowing down, stopping, congregating, engaging in “hunter-predatory” behavior and intersecting plasmas leaving a plasma dust trail in their wake. Similar life-like behaviors have been demonstrated by plasmas created experimentally. “Plasmas” may have been photographed in the 1940s by WWII pilots (identified as “Foo fighters”);repeatedly observed and filmed by astronauts and military pilots and classified as Unidentified Aerial—Anomalous Phenomenon. Plasmas are not biological but may represent a form of pre-life that via the incorporation of elements common in space, could result in the synthesis of RNA. Plasmas constitute a fourth state of matter, are attracted to electromagnetic activity, and when observed in the lower atmosphere likely account for many of the UFO-UAP sightings over the centuries.
文摘In order to prevent possible casualties and economic loss, it is critical to accurate prediction of the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) in rail prognostics health management. However, the traditional neural networks is difficult to capture the long-term dependency relationship of the time series in the modeling of the long time series of rail damage, due to the coupling relationship of multi-channel data from multiple sensors. Here, in this paper, a novel RUL prediction model with an enhanced pulse separable convolution is used to solve this issue. Firstly, a coding module based on the improved pulse separable convolutional network is established to effectively model the relationship between the data. To enhance the network, an alternate gradient back propagation method is implemented. And an efficient channel attention (ECA) mechanism is developed for better emphasizing the useful pulse characteristics. Secondly, an optimized Transformer encoder was designed to serve as the backbone of the model. It has the ability to efficiently understand relationship between the data itself and each other at each time step of long time series with a full life cycle. More importantly, the Transformer encoder is improved by integrating pulse maximum pooling to retain more pulse timing characteristics. Finally, based on the characteristics of the front layer, the final predicted RUL value was provided and served as the end-to-end solution. The empirical findings validate the efficacy of the suggested approach in forecasting the rail RUL, surpassing various existing data-driven prognostication techniques. Meanwhile, the proposed method also shows good generalization performance on PHM2012 bearing data set.
文摘Aim: This study evaluates the impact of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) nursing on postoperative complications and quality of life in patients undergoing robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE). Methods: A total of 150 patients who underwent RAMIE from January 2020 to January 2022 at our hospital were randomly assigned to either the observation group or the control group, with 75 patients in each. The control group received standard perioperative management and nursing care, while the observation group was treated with ERAS nursing strategies. Interventions continued until discharge, and outcomes such as postoperative complications, quality of life, and nutritional status were compared between the groups. Results: The observation group exhibited a significantly lower incidence of postoperative adverse reactions compared to the control group (P ionally, all dimension scores of the Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), including the total score, were higher in the observation group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS) scores for impaired nutritional status and disease severity, along with the total NRS score, were significantly lower in the observation group compared to the control group (P Conclusion: Implementing ERAS nursing in the perioperative care of patients undergoing RAMIE is associated with reduced postoperative complications and enhanced postoperative quality of life and nutritional status. .
文摘Cam-followers provide reliable and controlled motions in various mechanical systems. Due to the highly fluctuating load between the cam and follower in operation, the cam-follower may be subjected to a high risk of contact fatigue failure. This paper assesses the fatigue life of a cycloidal displacement cam and a flat-faced follower under the defined loads and constraints. Computer-aided design (CAD) model of the cam-follower is developed in CATIA software and imported to ANSYS software for finite element analysis (FEA) of fatigue life. MATLAB programming is developed for determining the appropriate spring constant and pre-load force to always keep the cam and follower in contact. The fatigue life of the cam-follower has been estimated under the specified operating conditions. The analysis method can be applied to investigate the fatigue life of cams with other profiles, including the modified trapezoidal functions, polynomial functions, etc.
文摘Introduction: Quality of life in Parkinson disease is not necessary linked to motor symptoms. It’s correlated of overactive bladders and prostatic symptoms. Prognosis factors of urinary quality of life are unknown. Objectives: Our study aims to find prognosis factors of quality of life associated specifically of urinary disorders in PD. Patients and methods: We conducted a transversal, analytic and descriptive study in Physical Medicine, and Neurology departments, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar and included patients followed for treatment of PD. Urinary disorders, quality of life and functional autonomy were assessed respectively by Urinary Symptoms Profile (USP), Qualiven Short Form, Schwab and England Scale. Results: 38 patients presented PD, with a mean age of 60.89 ± 13.6 years and sex-ratio of 2.45. Mean duration of PD was 3.1 ± 2.9 years. Urinary disorders were found in 47.36% and dominated by incontinence (88.88%) and overactive bladders (88.88%) which were minor in more than 55%. Quality of life was impaired in 88.88% of cases. Minor forms (43.75%) were predominant and constraint dimension (50%) was the most severely altered. Prognosis factors for quality of life of urinary disorders were PD stages (0.046) and functional autonomy (0.042). Discussion and conclusion: Urinary disorders in PD are common, impaired quality of life, especially the constraint dimension, depends on stage of evolution of PD and functional autonomy of patients.
文摘Background: Tinnitus, characterized by the perception of sounds without an external source, significantly affects quality of life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as a promising approach for managing tinnitus-related distress and enhancing psychological well-being. Objectives: This review aims to analyze the effectiveness of CBT in tinnitus management, focusing on alleviating distress, enhancing coping mechanisms, and improving overall well-being. Methods: PubMed and World of Science databases were systematically searched using keywords related to tinnitus, CBT, and quality of life. English, peer-reviewed studies focusing on adult populations were included. Studies involving pediatric populations or not meeting inclusion criteria were excluded. Data extraction was performed using PRISMA guidelines, with a narrative synthesis approach for analysis. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using appropriate tools. The search engine initially identified 155 studies that met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. However, upon further evaluation, 140 of these studies were excluded due to their non-randomized design. Of the remaining 15 studies, 11 were found to be partially accessible but ultimately excluded from the review as they did not meet the full accessibility criteria. Therefore, only four studies remained in the review, deemed suitable for inclusion based on their randomized design and full accessibility. Results: Studies by Beukes et al. [1]-[3] and Simoes et al. [4] evaluated CBT’s effectiveness. With internet-based CBT, Beukes et al. demonstrated reductions in tinnitus distress, negative cognitions, and comorbidities. Simoes et al. proposed combination treatments for tinnitus management. The review outcome suggests that CBT is an effective treatment for tinnitus, as it can help reduce tinnitus distress and improve quality of life. However, limitations in sample sizes and follow-up durations highlight the need for further research to establish CBT’s long-term efficacy and optimal parameters. Integrating internet-based CBT into comprehensive care strategies can enhance the well-being of individuals affected by tinnitus.
文摘Background and objective: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), a common disease worldwide, has a major impact on patients’ quality of life (QoL). In recent years, the measurement of health-related QoL has made it possible to assess the patient’s state of health, the severity of the CRS and the treatment. The aim of this study was to assess the QoL of patients with CRS in a hospital setting in Kinshasa. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted from June 2020 to May 2021 in the ENT service of the Kinshasa University Hospital and the Monkole Hospital Center. The study involved 113 patients aged at least 18 years, whose QOL was compared with that of a control group consisting of 100 non-patients. QOL was assessed using the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) Questionnaire. Results: The mean age of the patients was 41.0 years (18 - 74 years) and that of the controls was 39.1 years (19 - 77 years). More than half of the participants were university graduates. The median SNOT-22 score was 44 (14 - 78) in patients and 7 (1 - 40) in controls. Compared with subjects without CRS, patients with CRS had significantly higher scores in all four domains of the SNOT-22. Around 9 out of 10 patients had a severely impaired QoL compared with 2 out of 10 controls. Considering mildly impaired QoL, we found that in the otological and sleep domains, scores were not significantly different between patients and controls. In the case of severely impaired QoL, however, only the otological domain showed a non-significant difference in scores between the two groups. Conclusion: CRS is a real public health problem in our environment and significantly alters the QoL of patients suffering from it, with repercussions on their professional productivity;hence the need for better management.
文摘Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the immediate psychological effects of coordination exercises on women in Japan. Methods: The subjects were 17 adult women (height, 160.1 ± 5.1 cm;weight, 54.3 ± 10.5 kg;age, 57.8 ± 8.3 years) living in the community and attending a fitness club. The subjects performed a coordination exercise called Life Kinetik®. The subjects responded to the Two-Dimensional Mood Scale–Short Term before and after performing 30 minutes of Life Kinetik®. The results were tabulated and four psychological states were calculated (i.e., vitality, stability, pleasure, and arousal). The pre- and post-implementation results were statistically analyzed using a corresponding t-test. Results: Significant differences were found in activation and arousal levels, but not in stability and comfort levels. Conclusion: The coordination exercise, Life Kinetik®, was found to be an exercise program with potential psychological benefits, as it could change women’s psychological condition to active and excited states.
文摘Pyrolysis is a rapidly expanding chemical-based recyclable method that complements physical recycling. It avoids improper disposal of post-consumer polymers and mitigates the ecological problems linked to the production of new plastic. Nevertheless, while there is a consensus that pyrolysis might be a crucial technology in the years to come, more discussions are needed to address the challenges related to scaling up, the long-term sustainability of the process, and additional variables essential to the advancement of the green economy. Herein, it emphasizes knowledge gaps and methodological issues in current Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), underlining the need for standardized techniques and updated data to support robust decision-making for adopting pyrolysis technologies in waste management strategies. For this purpose, this study reviews the LCAs of pyrolytic processes, encompassing the complete life cycle, from feedstock collection to end-product distribution, including elements such as energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste creation. Hence, we evaluate diverse pyrolysis processes, including slow, rapid, and catalytic pyrolysis, emphasizing their distinct efficiency and environmental footprints. Furthermore, we evaluate the impact of feedstock composition, process parameters, and scale of operation on the overall sustainability of pyrolysis-based plastic waste treatment by integrating results from current literature and identifying essential research needs. Therefore, this paper argues that existing LCA studies need more coherence and accuracy. It follows a thorough evaluation of previous research and suggests new insights into methodologies and restrictions.